Coca-Cola confirms it will launch cane sugar version in US amid Trump 'enthusiasm'
(The Hill) - Coca-Cola Company confirmed on Tuesday that it will launch a cane sugar version of its iconic drink in the U.S. amid President Trump’s “enthusiasm,” coming less than a week after the president revealed the change on social media.
"As part of its ongoing innovation agenda, this fall in the United States, the company plans to launch an offering made with U.S. cane sugar to expand its Trademark Coca-Cola product range," the company said in a news release.
The Atlanta-based company said the addition is “designed to complement the company’s strong core portfolio and offer more choices across occasions and preferences.”
Trump said in a post on Truth Social last week that Coca-Cola agreed to use cane sugar in its flagship drink instead of high-fructose corn syrup.
“I have been speaking to Coca-Cola about using REAL Cane Sugar in Coke in the United States, and they have agreed to do so,” the president wrote on Wednesday. “I’d like to thank all of those in authority at Coca-Cola. This will be a very good move by them — You’ll see. It’s just better!”
The soft drink giant did not confirm the change last week, but said it appreciated Trump’s “enthusiasm” for the brand and that more details on “new innovative offerings within our Coca‑Cola product range will be shared soon.”
The soda sold in the U.S. is usually sweetened with corn syrup, while other countries — like Mexico, already use cane sugar. The "Mexican Coke" is also sold in the U.S.
Trump has been a longtime aficionado of Diet Coke, with the president having a red button installed at the Resolute Desk during his first term. When pressed, a staffer would bring the drink to the president.